Onchidoris bilamellata
2cm
0-55m
56 sites
Onchidorididae
Imagine stumbling upon a tiny, textured gem while exploring a rocky reef! That's likely your first encounter with the Barnacle-eating Dorid (Onchidoris bilamellata). These nudibranchs, or sea slugs, are small but mighty predators of barnacles. Though not flashy in color, their textured bodies and preference for barnacle-covered surfaces make them a rewarding find for observant divers and snorkelers. Keep an eye out in the Northeast Pacific, from the intertidal zone down to depths of 55 meters. While they might not be the main attraction, spotting one of these tiny predators adds a unique layer to your underwater adventure.
Barnacle-eating Dorids are typically small, around 2cm, but can reach up to 3cm. Look for a bumpy, textured appearance rather than a smooth one. Their colour is usually whitish to yellowish-orange. The most distinctive feature is the presence of two prominent gills near the rear of their body which help them breathe. They are usually found near or on barnacle colonies.
406 sites
